Straight to the Point
“Vote the bastards out” only works if there’s someone else on the ballot. That “someone” could be you. Someone who still believes Missouri can be more than culture war headlines and legislative chaos—and is ready to run for it.
Flip Seats
After the Missouri Senate abruptly ended its legislative session this week, you might have felt tempted to flip your Republican Senator the bird. The ultimate power move? Flip their seat (or any seat). If you’ve got a little hope, a lot of rage, and a deep love for this state, then it’s time to stop waiting for the baton to be passed and put your hand out to take it. If you will treat Missourians like their vote matters, then you are automatically more qualified than any Missouri Republican currently holding office.
Born to Run
You don’t need permission to run (some rules do apply). No secret handshake. No fancy resume. Just a reason. A “why.” Some courage. Thick skin doesn’t hurt. And maybe a few tools to help you along the way. Start here:
Put Me in, Coach
This week, Yvonne Reeves-Chong, Vice Chair of the Missouri Democratic Party, reminded us:
Missouri needs bold, community-rooted leaders at every level of government—and that might mean you.
Sounds like Yvonne is the ultimate Election Day Prepper. She’s offering one-on-one sessions for folks even thinking about running. That’s right: advice from someone who knows the race. Book a session here, and read more about her mission.
Alex Johnson at BeHeard MIssouri has worked across our state for years, recruiting and training candidates. Contact Alex@beheardmo.org.
Action Words
We’re not taught how local government works—and that’s on purpose. But here’s your shot to learn. Your roads, your rights, your rent—they’re all local. Figure out which elected positions affect what, and go after the one that lets you actually be the change you want to see in your community. We hear a lot about DC, but you can make a difference wherever you are.
Speaking of Making a Difference…
The St. Louis area was hit with a devastating storm and tornado, categorized as EF3. Along with sadness and despair, we are also witnessing leaders like Kayla Reed of Action St. Louis coordinating relief efforts. Please sign-up here if you’d like to volunteer time and resources.
St. Louis Magazine is providing information about resources for those in need and opportunities to help.
Know a leader or have a resource you think people need to know about in order to help the community recover? Share in the comments!
On a Positive Note
In 2022, Jess Piper ran for State Rep in her northwest Missouri district because no other Democrat had in over two decades. Did she win? No. She showed up. She gave voters a choice. She gave rural people a voice. Now she’s the voice for rural Democrats and a total force in Missouri politics. That’s what stepping up looks like—even if you don’t get the W right away.
Get the Memo
Subscribe to Memo. Send it to your friends who won’t shut up about politics in the group chat. And think about running. Because Missouri doesn’t just need more voters. It needs bold, brave people who are done waiting and ready to do something.
This is your seat. Take it.
Hi! I have been impressed with the messaging coming from this Substack! Keep up the great work. I'm working with a South County township and also on the STLDCC to uplift and empower Democrats in South County. Love the fresh voice!